Senator Raffy Tulfo on Sunday, January 7 scored the government’s move to the import modern jeepney units from China in a bid to replace the iconic ones in the Philippines as part of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization program (PUVMP).

Tulfo said the project reeks of corruption, considering that a local jeepney manufacturing industry can produce a quality modern jeep at a lower or affordable amount.

The imported jeepneys from China ranges from ₱2.6 to ₱2.9-million per unit, which he said is way more expensive than a brand new unit that local companies such as Sarao and Francisco Motors can make for only ₱900,000 to ₱985,000 each.

“Ang karagatan natin sa West Philippine Sea ay sinasakop na nga ng China, pati ba naman mga kalsada natin ay papayag tayong sasakupin na rin nila(Our ocean in the West Philippine Sea is already being occupied by China, will we also allow our roads to be occupied by them)?!” Tulfo asked.

Compared to this deal, Tulfo said the government stands to save an estimated P1.7-million per unit if it chooses a local manufacturer.

Moreover, if the cost of the jeepney to be purchased is around ₱900,000, he said the government will be able to afford the subsidies to implement the modernization at no cost to the jeepney drivers and operators.

He also said buying from local manufacturers will boost job opportunities for Filipino workers.

At the same time, patronizing local manufacturers would preserve the original style and iconic design of Philippine jeepneys which are already part of the Filipino culture.

But more than these, Tulfo said it is imperative to prioritize the welfare of jeepney drivers in the implementation of the PUVMP.